When pet owners need to be away, choosing the right accommodation for their furry friends is crucial. Both dog boarding and kenneling provide care for pets, but understanding the differences between them can help you make the best decision for your dog’s comfort and well-being.
Defining Dog Boarding and Kenneling
What Is Pet Kenneling?
Pet kenneling provides a secure environment for animals when their owners are away. Kennels typically house multiple animals in cages or enclosures, providing basic needs like food, water, and shelter. Kennels focus on safety and basic care rather than extra attention or amenities.
What Is Dog Boarding?
Dog boarding, also known as pet hotels or doggy daycare, offers a more home-like environment for pets. Boarding facilities provide personalized care, including supervised playtime, walks, grooming, and activities. The goal is to keep dogs happy and healthy while their owners are away, offering a higher level of attention and comfort.
Key Distinctions Between Dog Boarding and Kenneling
Purpose and Main Service
- Kennels: Provide temporary holding as part of another primary service like veterinary care, grooming, or adoption.
- Boarding Facilities: Focus solely on boarding and caring for dogs, creating a home-like environment.
Care and Staffing
- Kennels: Care and supervision vary; some have trained staff, others have minimal qualifications.
- Boarding Facilities: Staff are experienced in handling dogs and trained in pet first aid/CPR, behavior, training, and grooming.
Setting and Environment
- Kennels: Offer basic necessities with limited space or comfort, usually small single enclosures.
- Boarding Facilities: Create a home-like environment with amenities like soft bedding, access to outdoor space, and climate control, providing larger spaces.
Services Offered
- Kennels: Provide food, water, shelter, and sometimes walks.
- Boarding Facilities: Offer comprehensive services like playgroups, walks, training, dog grooming, medication administration, and veterinary care.
Pros and Cons of Dog Boarding and Kenneling
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dog Kennels
- Advantages:
- More affordable than boarding facilities
- Suitable for quick overnight stays
- Disadvantages:
- Limited services and amenities
- Potentially stressful for dogs without playtime or human interaction
Advantages and Disadvantages of Boarding Facilities
- Advantages:
- Provide more attentive, personalized care
- Offer amenities and services for a comfortable stay
- Better equipped for longer-term stays
- Disadvantages:
- More expensive than kennels
- Often require booking in advance due to demand
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Kennels and Boarding Facilities
Pet’s Needs and Preferences
Consider your dog’s needs. High-energy dogs may benefit more from a boarding facility, while mellower dogs may do fine in a kennel for a night or two. Choose the environment that makes them feel most comfortable.
Length of Stay
Boarding facilities are better equipped for longer stays of a week or more. Short-term stays under three days may be fine in a kennel.
Budget
Kennels tend to be more affordable than boarding facilities. However, some boarding facilities offer discounts or cheaper rates for basic services.
Location and Accessibility
Look for options conveniently located near your home or trip destination. Some facilities require booking far in advance, so plan ahead.
Real-World Experiences at Kennels vs. Boarding Facilities
Stories from Kennel Users
“I boarded my Labrador Retriever at a kennel for two nights when I went out of town on a business trip. It was an affordable option at $25 a night. When I picked him up, he seemed stressed out and anxious. I don’t think he liked being cooped up in a small kennel with minimal human contact and no room to run around. I’d only use a kennel again for very short stays.” – Sarah D., Denver, CO
“I’ve left my Corgi at the kennel at my vet’s office a couple of times when dropping him off for procedures. It’s convenient that they can keep him there before and after his appointments. The kennels are pretty basic – just a plastic bottom crate with a gate door. There are no amenities but the vet techs keep an eye on the dogs and make sure they have water.” – Ryan P., Memphis, TN
Stories from Boarding Facility Users
“We boarded our young German Shepherd at a boarding facility and daycare while away on a two-week vacation. They had an outdoor play area where she could play and socialize with other dogs during the day. At night, she stayed in a large suite with a cushy bed, water bowl, and toys. We paid extra for a daily training session. She came home happy and tired from all the activity!” – Jessica B., Chicago, IL
“I was really anxious about leaving my senior Yorkie for a full week, but the boarding facility made me feel at ease. They assigned someone to care for her one-on-one. She stayed in a small room outfitted just for older pups, had scheduled potty breaks and medicine administration, and the staff gave her lots of cuddles. I knew she was in good hands.” – Mark G., Boston, MA
The Importance of Ethical Treatment and Standards
While cost and amenities are important, ethical treatment of pets should be the top priority in selecting any boarding facility or service. Reputable providers should:
- Be licensed and regulated
- Screen staff members for experience and conduct background checks
- Provide evidence of policies for humane, lawful treatment of animals in their care
- Maintain full transparency about practices and procedures
Evolving Trends in Pet Accommodation
As demand grows, providers work to improve both facilities and services through advanced technology like live cameras, digital updates, and high-tech amenities. More “home-like” kennels with enhanced comfort, sustainable, green construction, and operating practices, and specialized services for dogs with unique needs are also becoming more common.
Conclusion
When choosing between pet boarding and kenneling services, consider the type of experience your pet will have in each environment. Dog boarding services in Toronto may be the better option if you’re looking for more personalized care with plenty of extra attention and activities. If budget or convenience is more important, a kennel may suffice.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on what will make both you and your pet feel most comfortable during your time apart. With proper research and preparation, pet owners can find the right fit for their furry family members, ensuring a safe and happy stay whether at a kennel or boarding facility.
